Aussie Book Review: Memories of Love by Jenny Schwartz

Book reviews

24 Apr

Memories of Love by Jenny SchwartzebookReview copy provided by publisher/ netgalleyEscape Publishing, April 2013 Synopsis- In a style reminiscent of Robyn Carr, an intensely emotional story about taking chances and risking your heart.When her family home burns down, it’s the final heartbreak for Rita Jorden who has already lost her parents. Her boss, former SAS captain and head of Tamerlane Security, Ivan Novak, steps in, offering her his home and his help. But Ivan has his own demons, and although he’s interested in Rita, there’s darkness in his past that could cause her harm. Thrown together into a situation that’s too close for comfort, this story can only end in one of two ways: in the destruction of Rita’s dreams of love — or the gift of healing and hope to two damaged survivors. Review- Memories of Love is the third novella by Australian author Jenny Schwartz to be published by Escape Publishing. Set around Anzac Day, the mood for this themed story isn’t quite as light as Schwartz’ former novella set on Australia Day.The story kicks off with Rita Jorden fleeing her home as it burns to the ground. Rita lives alone and works for a security company, the only place she feels she belongs. She’s surprised when her reliable and protective boss Ivan Novak (former SAS) gets involved to help her through this stressful time. He offers her his guest room and demands she takes some time to rest and recover from the ordeal. Rita is both relieved and wary of the strength Ivan provides and she’s determined not to get too comfortable and overstay her welcome. A series of losses keeps Rita on guard and she’s cautious of making plans for the future or any fleeting feelings of happiness she may experience due to the fear that she could lose that too. So when the attraction between Rita and Ivan appears mutual, acting on their feelings isn’t smooth sailing. Ivan is haunted by his own demons, he fears he could hurt Rita while Rita doesn’t feel she’s good enough for Ivan.I can see why Schwartz’ style was described by the publisher as similar to Robyn Carr (even though I’ve only read 2 of her books) they do present with a similar feel- an intense relationship between characters with deep-seated emotional struggles.Memories of Love is a sweet, short story about two people who have many fears that find a way to overcome this together. I thought the idea Ivan schemed up at the end was very romantic, a nice contrast to his sturdy, masculine outward demeanour. This story is short, so the opportunity for romance development is restricted but I did find it very enjoyable and look forward to reading more of Schwartz’ shorts.